There isn’t much that can ruin a beautiful view or hike during summer in Mammoth Lakes, but mosquitoes just might do it. That means that just about everyone wants to avoid Mammoth Lakes’ mosquito season.
Of course, it’s not that simple. Fortunately, the ASO Mammoth team is here to help you avoid Mammoth Lakes’ mosquitoes as effectively as possible. Check out our guide below, then visit the ASO Mammoth shop for the best outdoor gear and rentals in Mammoth Lakes!
Does Mammoth Lakes Have Many Mosquitoes?
It’s easy to imagine a world where there are no mosquitoes in Mammoth Lakes. After all, the dry air, high elevation, and reliably cool temperatures all make it seem like Mammoth would be a no go for mosquitoes.
That’s partly correct. Mammoth Lakes does have relatively low mosquito activity in part to due to those factors, particularly when compared to other summer travel destinations.
However, you can’t forget the “Lakes” in Mammoth Lakes.
Mammoth’s many lakes, ponds, and streams are all prime places for mosquitoes to live, even with the area’s temperate summers. Plus, most of the snow that falls during winter will melt, leaving the area full of water as it runs down the mountains.
Where are Mosquitoes in Mammoth Lakes?
Unfortunately for people wanting to spend their trip on the water, that’s where mosquitoes will be at their thickest. How bad they are depends on the time of year, the current weather, and what the previous weather has been like.
Fortunately, you can avoid the worst of the swarms by opting for hikes and camping trips away from water. There are plenty of great options that fit that description, as well as others that briefly cross water or run near it.
For example, McGee Canyon has a creek in the middle of it that may be full of mosquitoes, but there is also plenty of room to avoid the creek while on the trail.
You can also prepare for mosquitoes so that you don’t have to avoid iconic Mammoth Lakes destinations. For example, don’t skip a visit to Convict Lake because the mosquitoes sound too annoying.
Come prepared with proper clothing, bug spray, and netting if you really don’t want to be bugged!
When is Mammoth Lakes’ Mosquito Season?
Mosquitoes come with warm, humid weather, so you can expect them to be at their worst during mid to late summer, especially when there is a large amount of snowmelt coming down from higher elevations.
Don’t be afraid of visiting in summer though! With proper planning and preparation, you’ll avoid the worst of Mammoth’s mosquitoes and see just why we love our hometown more than anywhere else in the world!